The inaugural RSF/GPF Central Coast Girls Flag Football All-Star Game was more than just a game—it was a moment in history. Held on January 26, 2025, at Santa Cruz High School, the event brought together the top senior athletes from Monterey and Santa Cruz counties, showcasing the growth and talent in a sport that’s quickly gaining momentum. The vision behind the game came from Reggie Stephens, founder of the Reggie Stephens Foundation (RSF), and Joel Domhoff of the Gino Panelli Foundation (GPF), who wanted to create something special for the young women carving out their place in football.
At the heart of this event was Reggie’s Sunday Sessions, a free training program that has become a safe space for student-athletes—both boys and girls—to sharpen their skills, build confidence, and grow as competitors. Over time, the sessions helped fuel the rise of girls’ flag football in the region, giving athletes a place to train, connect, and realize their potential. The passion and dedication these young women brought to the field made it clear: they deserved a platform to showcase their talent at the highest level. That’s when the idea for the all-star game was born.
The game itself was electric. Team North, representing Santa Cruz County, was led by Coach Frank Galvan (St. Francis High School), with Eric Kirby (Soquel) and Andy Morris (Santa Cruz) on the sideline. Team South, representing Monterey County, was led by Jose Perez (Hollister), Mike Phillips (North Monterey County), and Marisol Rasul (Alisal). It was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of how far the sport has come and how much further it can go. The players gave everything they had, making highlight-reel plays and proving that girls’ flag football is here to stay.
The event’s impact stretched far beyond the field, thanks to top-tier media coverage from KSBW, FOX 35, and Community Television of Santa Cruz (CTV). The game was filmed and broadcast, ensuring that these young athletes’ accomplishments were seen and celebrated by the wider community. To make the moment even more special, Starter, the legendary sportswear brand, stepped in to sponsor custom all-star jerseys, hoodies, and t-shirts, giving the players a tangible reminder of what they’d accomplished.
Looking back, this game wasn’t just about winning or losing—it was about breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and setting the stage for what’s next. It was about Reggie and Joel believing in these athletes and giving them a chance to shine. It was about community, growth, and proving that the Central Coast is ready to embrace girls’ flag football at the highest level. If this first all-star game was any indication, the future of the sport is bright—and this is just the beginning.
